Joho sues Ruto allies over links to drug trafficking

Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho has sued four allies of Deputy President William Ruto for defamation after they linked him to drug trafficking.

Joho yesterday sued his Nandi counterpart Stephen Sang and MPs Oscar Sudi (Kapseret), Kimani Ichung’wah (Kikuyu) and Didimus Barasa (Kimilili), who have accused him of trafficking drug.

But the four remained defiant, asking Joho to respond to their claims.

Through Ochieng’ K & Associates Advocates, Joho accuses the four of deliberately, maliciously and callously employing falsehoods, gossip and slanderous language to maximise hatred against him.

Joho says the leaders have been spreading claims aimed at soiling his name for purposes of the 2022 General Election, in which he intends to vie for president.

“The defendants were motivated not only by extreme malice but also by other ulterior motives knowing very well Joho would probably contest future elections and indeed, the highest political leadership in the Republic of Kenya,” the suit papers read.

The case has been certified as urgent and the four directed to respond within 15 days.

Joho says he has never been indicted for any offence relating to and/or traded in any illicit drugs and/or narcotics.

As Joho went to court, Mr Sang’ held a Press conference in Nairobi and insisted on addressing the claims.

Sang accused Joho of using Ruto to divert attention from the issues they raised about his alleged involvement in drug trafficking. He said he was ready to present evidence linking Joho to illicit business.

“We have raised serious issues about Governor Joho, yet all he is doing is divert attention. He is desperate to save his skin. He has never addressed this issue and is trying to cover up by dragging in the DP’s name,” said Sang.

Joho says on account of the claims his reputation, integrity, personality and credibility have been irreparably injured and as a consequence, he has suffered considerate distress, humiliation, ridicule, trauma, embarrassment, losses and damages.

“I’ve also been brought to public hatred, contempt, suspicion, odium and I claim exemplary and/or aggravated damages against the defendants,” Joho’s affidavit reads.

Joho wants the court to award him general damages and an injunction barring the four from discussing the issue in public.